Cleveland Cavaliers: Carrick Felix Could Find Small Role as Rookie

Stephen R. Sylvanie – USA Today Sports Images

Earlier in August, the Cleveland Cavaliers officially signed their second-round pick from the 2013 NBA Draft, Carrick Felix, to a four-year deal that will pay him $510,000 in his rookie year. With future parts of his deal being guaranteed, it seems pretty safe to assume that Felix is going to be on the Cavs’ roster when the regular season gets underway.

The Cavs grabbed Felix with the 33^rd overall pick in the draft, a decent value for the former Arizona State player. As a senior last year for the Sun Devils, Felix averaged a solid 14.6 points, 8.1 rebounds, 1.6 assists, 1.1 blocks and 1.4 steals in 35.3 minutes per game. The new Cavalier also shot a solid 50 percent from the floor and 37.4 percent from three.

At the Las Vegas Summer League, Felix made a point to prove that he can be a valuable a contributor on this team by providing Cleveland’s Summer League squad with solid defense, high-energy and remaining competent on the offensive end of the floor. He did just that as he averaged 7.2 points, 5.4 rebounds and 0.6 steals in 24.2 minutes per game while shooting 40 percent from the floor.

Felix is limited as an offensive player, but has the ability to knock down open shots if the opportunity arises. The bulk of his value as a young player is derived from his potential as a defender and energy guy.

Obviously the Cavs have a crowded backcourt heading into this season with Kyrie Irving, Dion Waiters, Jarrett Jack and C.J. Miles. However, Felix has the chance to break their rotation in a minimal role with his defense. He just has to make sure to play within himself and he should find success as a rookie this year.

Cody Williams is a Senior Writer with Rant Sports. Follow Cody on Twitter @TheSizzle20, add him on Google and like his Facebook page.